Gun Barrel Thermal Indicator

ABSTRACT

The inventive technology comprises a novel gun barrel thermal indicator system that incorporates one or more thermogenic compounds that may be coupled to a gun barrel and indicate the temperature of a gun barrel during and after use. Additional embodiments may comprise a digital gun barrel thermal indicator system that may be coupled to a gun barrel and digitally indicate the temperature of a gun barrel during and after use. This novel gun barrel thermal indicator system may indicate the temperature at which the gun barrel will cause burns, is unsafe to store, or if a pre-determined threshold temperature has been reached resulting in a loss of firing accuracy, as well as imminent and/or actual barrel failure.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser.No. 15/493,543, filed Apr. 21, 2017, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Generally, the inventive technology disclosed herein relates totechniques, systems, methods and apparatus for providing a weaponmounted thermal indicator system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Repeated firing of a gun, and in particular modern rapid-firing sportrifles, can result in excessive heating of the gun's barrel. Each firedcartridge can result in a discharge of thermal energy reachingapproximately 5000° Fahrenheit. While some of this thermal energy isreleased outward from the end of the barrel, a significant amount ofheat is transferred to the barrel. Excessive barrel temperature can beassociated with a loss of firing accuracy, increased barrel erosion, anddegradation of internal rifling. Excessive heating over a prolongedperiod of time can result in warping as well as a catastrophic barrelfailure. This level of excessive heating may require replacement of thebarrel, which can be expensive and inconvenient for most individuals.

Excessive gun barrel heating may also raise concerns with respect topersonal safety. For example, firing multiple rounds from a gun canresult in an external temperature capable of severe burns to a user. Asdemonstrated below, for a standard M16-A1 rifle, a relative of themodern AR-15, a firing rate of 20 rounds every 5 seconds for a period of35 seconds can result in an external barrel temperature of approximately800° Fahrenheit. Even at a rate of 1 round every 5 seconds for a periodof 140 seconds can result on an average barrel temperature of 600°Fahrenheit.

Barrel temperature (° F.) after 140 rounds Firing round 5″ from muzzle3″ 1″ 1 (1 rd, 6 sec., M193) N/A 386 354 2 (1 rd, 3 sec., M193) 381 502466 3 (1 rd, 1 sec., M193) 586 685 613 4 (20 rd, 20 sec., M193) 590 702620 5 (20 rd, 10 sec., M193) 657 763 670 6 (20 rd, 5 sec., M193) N/A 799N/A 7 (1 rd, 1 sec., M196) 562 655 580 8 (20 rd, 20 sec., M196) 562 695588 Source: National Technical Information Service

For an average adult, contacting a surface of only 151° Fahrenheit canresult in a first degree burn, while contact of the same surface for 2seconds could result in second and/or third degree burns.

Excessive gun barrel heating may also raise concerns with respect to gunstorage. As noted above, a gun barrel can rapidly reach temperaturesthat can melt many common fabrics and other materials used in gunstorage bags/containers. For example, as shown below, even inadvertentcontact with a heated gun barrel can destroy most common fabric andmaterials.

Nylon 6 melting point 374-663° F. PVC Material Melting point 212-500° F.Polyester Fabrics Melting point approximately 482° F. Cotton decomposes300° F.

Traditionally, gun users would simply wait a period of time until theybelieved the gun barrel was sufficiently cool to touch and/or store. Inthese cases, gun users would often be forced to risk serious burns bytouching the gun barrel to confirm its temperature.

The foregoing problems regarding excessive gun barrel heating mayrepresent a long-felt need for an effective solution to the same. Whileimplementing elements may have been available, actual attempts to meetthis need may have been lacking to some degree. This may have been dueto a failure of those having ordinary skill in the art to fullyappreciate or understand the nature of the problems and challengesinvolved. As a result of this lack of understanding, attempts to meetthese long-felt needs may have failed to effectively solve one or moreof the problems or challenges here identified. These attempts may evenhave led away from the technical directions taken by the presentinventive technology, and may even result in the achievements of thepresent inventive technology being considered to some degree, anunexpected result of the approach taken by some in the field.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1—is a front view of a thermochromic band in one embodimentthereof;

FIG. 2—is a perspective view of a thermochromic band in one embodimentthereof;

FIG. 3—is a side view of a thermochromic band in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 4—is a side view of a barrel thermal indicator in one embodimentthereof;

FIG. 5—is a perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in oneembodiment thereof;

FIG. 6—is a front perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in oneembodiment thereof;

FIG. 7—is a back perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in oneembodiment thereof;

FIG. 8—is a perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in oneembodiment thereof;

FIG. 9—is a perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in onealternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 10—is a side perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in onealternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 11—is a front view of a barrel thermal indicator in one alternativeembodiment thereof;

FIG. 12—is a back perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in onealternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 13—is a perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator in anotheralternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 14—is a front perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator inanother alternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 15—is a back perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator inanother alternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 16—is a front perspective view of a barrel thermal indicator inanother alternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 17—is a front view of a barrel thermal indicator in anotheralternative embodiment thereof;

FIG. 18—is a front view of a digital barrel thermal indicator with abarrel coupler in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 19—is a perspective view of a digital barrel thermal indicator witha barrel coupler in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 20—is a top view of a digital barrel thermal indicator with abarrel coupler in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 21—is a back perspective view of a digital barrel thermal indicatorwith a barrel coupler in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 22—is a back view of a digital barrel thermal indicator with abarrel coupler in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 23—is a front perspective view of a digital barrel thermalindicator in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 24—is a back perspective view of a digital barrel thermal indicatorin one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 25—is a bottom perspective view of a digital barrel thermalindicator in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 26—is a back perspective view of a digital barrel thermal indicatorin one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 27—is a side perspective view of a digital barrel thermal indicatorwith a retracted display housing in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 28—is a top view of a digital barrel thermal indicator with aretracted display housing in one embodiment thereof; and

FIG. 29—is a front view of a digital barrel thermal indicator with aretracted display housing in one embodiment thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventive technology comprises a novel gun barrel thermal indicatorsystem that incorporates one or more thermogenic compounds that may becoupled to a gun barrel and indicate the temperature of a gun barrelduring and after use. Additional embodiments may comprise a digital gunbarrel thermal indicator system that may be coupled to a gun barrel anddigitally indicate the temperature of a gun barrel during and after use.This novel gun barrel thermal indicator system may indicate thetemperature at which the gun barrel will cause burns, is unsafe tostore, or if a pre-determined threshold temperature has been reachedresulting in a loss of firing accuracy, as well as imminent and/oractual barrel failure.

One aim of the current inventive technology is to provide a flexiblethermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator. In a preferredembodiment, this system may include a quantity of one or morethermochromic indicators that may be impregnated within a flexiblethermochromic band and calibrated such that the thermal energy generatedfrom a gun barrel during use may causes the thermochromic indicator(s)to transmit a temperature signal when the thermal energy reaches atleast one pre-determined temperature threshold. One or more of thesethermochromic bands may be configured to be secured around a gun barrelsuch that the thermal energy generated within the gun barrel istransferred to the thermochromic band.

Another aim of the current inventive technology is to provide a gunbarrel thermal indicator. In a preferred embodiment, this system mayinclude at least one barrel coupler configured to be secured with a gunbarrel such that thermal energy generated within the gun barrel istransferred to the barrel coupler. At least one thermochromic indicatormay be secured to, coupled with, or impregnated in the barrel couplerand calibrated such that the thermal energy generated from a gun barrelcauses the thermochromic indicator(s) to transmit a temperature signal.

Yet another aim of the current inventive technology is to provide adigital gun barrel thermal indicator. In a preferred embodiment, thissystem may include at least one barrel coupler configured to be securedwith a gun barrel such that thermal energy generated within the gunbarrel is transferred to the barrel coupler. This barrel coupler mayinclude a sensor configured to detect and transmit the temperature ofthe barrel coupler and/or gun barrel to a processor which may then beconverted into a digital temperature indication. In this embodiment, adigital display on the barrel coupler, or a separate display screen, maybroadcast this digital temperature indication.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention includes a variety of aspects, which may becombined in different ways. The following descriptions are provided tolist elements and describe some of the embodiments of the presentinvention. These elements are listed with initial embodiments, howeverit should be understood that they may be combined in any manner and inany number to create additional embodiments. The variously describedexamples and preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit thepresent invention to only the explicitly described systems, techniques,and applications. Further, this description should be understood tosupport and encompass descriptions and claims of all the variousembodiments, systems, techniques, methods, devices, and applicationswith any number of the disclosed elements, with each element alone, andalso with any and all various permutations and combinations of allelements in this or any subsequent application.

The inventive technology may include a flexible barrel thermal indicator(1). In this embodiment, a pliable material, such as rubber or otherflexible polymer may be impregnated, or coated with one or morethermochromic indicators (3) forming a thermochromic band (19). Exampleof thermochromic indicators (3) may include any substance, compound ormixture that may undergo some type or perceivable transformation inresponse to heat, in this case, heat being conducted from a gun barrel.Examples of specific thermochromic indicators (3) may include, but notbe limited to: thermochromic paint, thermochromic dyes, thermochromicchemicals; thermochromic strips, thermochromic pigments; andthermochromic coatings.

Generally referring to FIGS. 1-3, a thermochromic band (19) may beformed into a circular configuration that may be placed over the barrelof a gun or rifle—the terms being generally interchangeable. In thisembodiment, the flexible thermochromic band (19) may be sufficientlypliable to be able to expand to accommodate placement over a barrelhaving a muzzle break, suppressor, compensator, silencer, or othersecondary attachments. In this configuration, a user may be able to viewthe thermochromic band (19) while firing the gun, but it will notinterfere with the user's sight-line. Additionally, being in physical,or close to physical contact with the external surface of the gunbarrel, heat generated from the discharge of rounds from the gun may beconducted to the thermochromic band (19) which may cause thethermochromic indicator (3) to undergo a perceivable transformation inresponse to a change in thermal energy and thereby transmit atemperature signal.

In a preferred embodiment, a quantity of thermochromic indicator (3) maybe impregnated within a thermochromic band (19) and calibrated such thatthe thermal energy generated from the gun barrel may cause one or morethermochromic indicators (3) to change color thereby transmitting atemperature signal when the thermal energy from the gun barrel reachesat least one pre-determined temperature threshold. In this embodiment, apre-determined temperature threshold may be determined by the type oramount of thermochromic indicator(s) (3) used. For example, onethermochromic indicator (3) may transmit a temperature signal at 100°Fahrenheit, while another thermochromic indicator (3) may transmit atemperature signal at 300° Fahrenheit. In certain embodiments, a singlethermochromic indicator(s) (3) may be used, while in other alternativeembodiments a plurality of thermochromic indicators (3), each having adistinct temperature signal may be incorporated into the thermochromicband (19).

The use of thermochromic indicator(s) (3) may be calibrated. In thisembodiment, the thermochromic indicator (3) impregnated within athermochromic band (19) may be calibrated to account for the type ofthermochromic indicator (3), the quantity of thermochromic indicator(3), the gun barrel thickness, the type thermochromic band (19)material, the amount of thermal thermochromic band (19) material used,and/or the heat transfer coefficient variation in the gun barrel. Thiscalibration may allow the thermal energy generated from the gun barrelto cause the thermochromic indicator (3) to transmit a temperaturesignal when said thermal energy from a gun barrel reaches at least onepre-determined temperature threshold.

A plurality of pre-determined temperature thresholds may be contemplatedwithin the scope of this invention. For example, a pre-determinedtemperature threshold may include a touch temperature threshold. In thisembodiment, at a temperature where the thermal energy generated from agun barrel, may be sufficient to cause minor or even serious burns, thethermochromic band (19) may transmit a burn temperature signal bychanging color. This signal may visually alert the user to: 1) not touchthe barrel; or 2) reduce the firing rate; or 3) stop firing the gun.Alternatively, at a temperature where the thermal energy generated froma gun barrel has sufficiently dissipated so as to be safe to touch, thethermochromic band (19) may transmit a temperature signal by changingcolor, or reverting to its original color. This signal may visuallyalert the user that: 1) the barrel is safe to touch; and 2) the gun issafe to fire.

Additional pre-determined temperature thresholds may be contemplatedwithin the scope of this invention. For example, a pre-determinedtemperature threshold may include a store temperature threshold. In thisembodiment, at a temperature where the thermal energy generated from thegun barrel is sufficient to cause damage to materials that may come intocontact with the gun barrel during storage, the thermochromic band (19)may transmit a store or storage temperature signal by changing color.This signal may visually alert the user to: 1) not store the gun wherethe barrel may come into contact with other materials; or 2) reduce thefiring rate; or 3) stop firing the gun. Alternatively, at a temperaturewhere the thermal energy generated from the gun barrel has sufficientlydissipated so as to be safe to store, the thermochromic band (19) maytransmit a temperature signal by changing color, or reverting to itsoriginal color. This signal may visually alert the user that the gun issafe to store.

Along these lines, additional embodiments may include otherpre-determined temperature thresholds such as a firing accuracytemperature threshold, an imminent barrel failure temperature threshold,and a barrel failure temperature threshold. As noted above, a pluralityof thermochromic indicators (3) may be impregnated within athermochromic band (19). These thermochromic indicators (3) may bedifferent compounds or mixtures of compounds or they may bedifferentially calibrated to transmit differential temperature signals.

For example, in one embodiment, a thermochromic band (19) may beimpregnated or coated with three thermogenic indicators (3). A firstthermogenic indicator (3) may transmit a temperature signal by a colorchange when the gun barrel has reached a pre-determined temperaturethreshold that will cause burns. Another thermogenic indicator (3) maytransmit a temperature signal by a different color change when the gunbarrel has reached a pre-determined temperature threshold that makes itunsafe to store the gun. A third thermogenic indicator (3) may transmita temperature signal by a different color change when the gun barrel hasreached a pre-determined temperature threshold that indicates barrelfailure has occurred or is imminent. Such temperature signals may beoverlapping and/or sequential, or may occur at distinct positions in thethermochromic band (19). Naturally, multiple other thermogenicindicators (3) may be used simultaneously in other embodiments.Additional embodiments may include a thermochromic band (19) that maytransmit a color change temperature signal when a pre determinedthreshold has been met, where the resulting color change may spell aword, or indicate a number, such as the temperature the barrel hasreached.

Additional embodiments may provide a pre-generated calibration guide. Inthis embodiment, a user may identify the make and model of gun beingused and cross-reference that information with the guide. This guide maytake into account the various types of gun barrels, materials used,barrel thicknesses, the heat transfer coefficient variations in the gunbarrel, as well as differential heating patterns along the length of thebarrel. The user may evaluate this information in selecting one or morethermochromic bands (19) that would be most appropriate for thatparticular gun barrel. This guide may further promote a user to positionthe thermochromic band (19) at a certain position along the gun barrel.

Additional embodiments of the inventive technology may include a barrelthermal indicator (1) having one or more barrel couplers (5) that may becoupled/secured with and/or over a gun barrel. In one preferredembodiment, a barrel coupler (5) may be specifically configured to besecured or coupled with a gun barrel such that thermal energy generatedwithin a gun barrel is transferred to a barrel coupler (5). Generallyreferring to FIGS. 4-17, in this preferred embodiment, a barrel coupler(5) may be configured with a barrel aperture (2) that may correspond tothe approximate size and/or shape of a gun barrel. A barrel coupler (5)may be secured to a gun barrel by inserting the gun barrel through thebarrel aperture (2) and sliding the barrel coupler (5) along the lengthof the barrel until it is positioned at a desired location. As shown inthe figures, in this embodiment, the internal surface of the barrelaperture (2) may be configured to maintain consistent contact with theexternal surface of a gun barrel. In this configuration thermal energygenerated within the gun barrel may be efficiently transferred orconducted to the barrel coupler (5).

While initially shown as a single unitary component, in certainembodiments, a barrel coupler (5) may be formed from one or moredisparate components that may be joined together and coupled with a gunbarrel. A barrel coupler (5) may also be formed using a variety ofmaterials, including metals such as aluminum, cooper, brass, and steel,as well as plastic, and various other composites.

In one embodiment, a barrel coupler (5) may include a barrel lock thatmay be configured to securely couple the barrel coupler (5) to the gunbarrel. In this embodiment, a barrel lock may include a cam-action lockthat may secure the barrel coupler (5) to the gun barrel, while otherembodiments may include a fastener that may be inserted into the barrelcoupler (5) and further secured to a gun barrel or other component.

As shown in FIGS. 4-17, a barrel coupler (5) may include one or morebarrel apertures (4) that may be configured to accept a fastener orscrew. In this embodiment, a barrel coupler (5) may be positioned over agun barrel and a fastener or screw may be threaded through the barrelaperture (4) and the distal portion of the fastener or screw may contactthe external surface of the gun barrel and secure the barrel coupler (5)in position. In certain other embodiments, the distal end of a fasteneror screw may be padded, such that it may be coated with an elastomericor other compressible material that may act as a buffer between thefastener or screw and the surface of the barrel so as to preventscratching or other damage. The inventive technology includes additionalmechanical configurations that may be used to secure a barrel coupler(5) to a gun barrel. For example, a barrel coupler (5) may be securedwith a gun barrel by: a clamp; a magnet; a quick-release lock; abiased-spring; a snap coupler; a slide coupler; or a twist coupler andthe like.

The inventive technology may include a barrel coupler (5) being coupledwith one or more thermochromic indicators (3). A thermochromic indicator(3) may include any substance, compound of mixture that may undergo sometype or perceivable transformation in response to thermal energy, inthis case heat being conducted from a gun barrel into a barrel coupler(5). Examples of thermochromic indicators (3) may include, but not belimited to: thermochromic paint, thermochromic dyes, thermochromicchemicals; thermochromic strips, thermochromic pigments, and otherthermochromic coatings.

Referring to FIGS. 5-8, in one embodiment, a barrel coupler (5) mayinclude a thermochromic indicator (3) in the form of a thermochromicstrip. In this preferred embodiment, a thermochromic strip may betransiently or permanently positioned within a thermochromic indicatorchannel (20) or to the surface of a barrel coupler (5). In thisembodiment, thermal energy generated by the discharge of rounds from thegun may be transmitted to the gun barrel and then further conducted tothe barrel coupler (5). The thermal energy may be further transmitted tothe thermochromic indicator (3), in this case a thermochromic strip. Asthe temperature of the barrel coupler (5) increases, the thermochromicindicator (3) may transmit a temperature signal. In the specificembodiment shown in FIGS. 5-8, the thermochromic indicator (3) may be agradated thermochromic strip such that as the temperature of the barrelcoupler (5) increases, each distinct segment, having a thermochromicindicator material that may be calibrated to sequentially transmittemperature signals when a temperature threshold is reached.

Example of additional pre-determined temperature thresholds may include,but not be limited to: a temperature threshold that may cause a burn, atemperature threshold that may cause a 1^(st) degree burn, a temperaturethreshold that may cause a 2^(nd) degree burn, a temperature thresholdthat may cause a 3^(rd) degree burn, a temperature threshold where a gunor gun barrel should not come into contact with other materials, atemperature threshold where a gun or gun barrel should not be stored, orcannot be stored safely; a temperature threshold where a barrel shouldbe replaced, repaired or evaluated for damage, a temperature thresholdwhere firing accuracy may be lost or affected, a temperature thresholdwhere an imminent barrel failure may occur, and a temperature thresholdwhere a barrel failure has, or may have occurred.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, for example, when the temperature ofthe barrel coupler (5) is below 140° Fahrenheit, no thermochromicindicator (3) will have transmitted a temperature signal. As thetemperature of the barrel coupler (5) increases, a sequential segment ofthe thermochromic strip will transmit a temperature signal, for examplethrough a visible color change. When the temperature of the barrelcoupler (5) reaches, or exceeds 212° Fahrenheit, all of the sequentialsegments of the thermochromic strip will be transmitting a temperaturesignal. In this manner, a user may quickly reference the approximatetemperature of the gun barrel.

In additional embodiments, one or more thermochromic indicators securedto a barrel coupler (5) may be calibrated such that said thermal energygenerated from said gun barrel may cause one or more thermochromicindicators to transmit a binary temperature signal. For example, asshown in FIGS. 9-12, when the temperature of the barrel coupler (5) isbelow 120° Fahrenheit, neither thermochromic indicator (3) will transmita temperature signal. As the temperature of the barrel coupler (5)increases to 120° Fahrenheit or above, a first thermochromic indicator(3) will transmit a temperature signal, for example through a visiblecolor change. When the temperature of the barrel coupler (5) reaches, orexceeds 160° Fahrenheit, both thermochromic indicators (3) will transmita temperature signal.

Naturally, such temperature ranges are exemplary only and not meant tobe limiting as to any embodiment. Indeed, a plurality of temperaturesignals may be transmitted to alert a user as to the approximatetemperature of the gun barrel. For example, in certain embodiments, thistemperature signal may include, but not be limited to: a numericaltemperature signal, a color temperature signal, a color gradienttemperature signal, a color indication, and a binary temperature signal,a warning temperature signal, a burn temperature signal, a store failuretemperature signal, an accuracy temperature signal, an imminent barrelfailure temperature signal, and a barrel failure temperature signal.

The inventive technology may include one or more thermochromicindicators (3) secured to a barrel coupler (5) and calibrated such thatthe thermal energy generated from a gun barrel causes the thermochromicindicator(s) (3) to transmit a temperature signal. In certainembodiments, a thermochromic indicator (3) secured to a barrel coupler(5) may be calibrated to account for the type of thermochromic indicator(3), the quantity of the thermochromic indicator (3), the gun barrelthickness, the type and amount of material used in the barrel coupler(5), the shape of the barrel coupler (5), the position of thethermochromic indicator (3) with respect to the gun barrel, and the heattransfer coefficient variation in the gun barrel and/or barrel coupler(5). This calibration may allow the thermal energy generated from thegun barrel to cause the thermochromic indicator (3) to transmit anapproximately accurate temperature signal when the thermal energy from agun barrel reaches at least one pre-determined temperature threshold.

As noted above, the inventive technology may provide a user a real-timetemperature signal that may indicate the approximate temperature of agun barrel. In this configuration, a user may be able to view atemperature signal in the guns line-of-sight without being otherwiseobstructed. As shown in FIGS. 4-17, one or more thermochromic indicators(3) may be positioned so as to be facing a user. In these preferredembodiments, a thermochromic indicator (3) may be positioned on anextended portion of a barrel coupler (5) such that it may be visiblewithin a user's line-of-sight while operating the firearm, but not in aposition that would interfere with the sight-line or aim of the user.Additional embodiments may include an adjustable barrel coupler (5) thatmay allow the thermochromic indicator (3) to be moved out of the user'sline-of-sight. Such adjustment may be accomplished through a swivel oftwist joint and the like. Additional embodiments may also includeplacement of one or more thermochromic indicators (3) flush with, orproximal to the gun barrel and not visible in the user's line-of-sight.

Generally referring to FIGS. 13-17, in one embodiment, a barrel coupler(5) may be configured to detect and transmit, through a digital signal,the temperature of the gun barrel and/or barrel coupler (5) to aprocessor that may be positioned on or within the barrel coupler (5).This processor may be configured to receive this digital signal andconvert it into a digital temperature indication (17). Additionalembodiments may include a barrel coupler (5) that may secure a sensor,such as a laser temperature sensor, that may be configured to detect andtransmit, through a digital signal, the temperature of the gun barrel.

A variety of digital temperature indications (17) may be encompassed bythe inventive technology. In a preferred embodiment, a digitaltemperature indication (17) may be a digital numerical display thatindicates the temperature of a barrel coupler or gun barrel. Additionaldigital temperature indications (17) may include color light indicationsas well as audio indications that may alert when a pre-determinedtemperature threshold is reached. For example, when a sensor in a barrelcoupler (5) may detect that a gun barrel has reached a temperature thatmay cause burns, it may transmit a digital signal to a processor. Thisdigital signal may be received by the processor and converted it into adigital temperature indication (17) such a numerical, light and/or audiodisplay may alert a user that the gun barrel has reached a temperaturewhere it may cause burns.

Additional examples of digital temperature indications (17) include, butare not limited to: a color gradient digital temperature indication, acolor digital temperature indication, a binary digital temperatureindication, a warning digital temperature indication, a burn digitaltemperature indication, a store failure digital temperature indication,an accuracy digital temperature indication, a barrel failure digitaltemperature indication, a digital temperature indication associated witha pre-determined temperature threshold.

Additional embodiments may include a digital gun barrel thermalindication system having a separate digital display (8) that may beseparately mounted to a weapon. Generally referring to FIGS. 18-29, inthis embodiment a barrel coupler (5) may be configured to secure abarrel coupler sensor (11). This barrel coupler sensor (11) may bepositioned in contact with, or proximally to a gun barrel and configuredto measure and transmit the temperature of the gun barrel and/or barrelcoupler (5) to a processor. In certain embodiments, a barrel couplersensor (11) may be positioned within a sensor aperture on the barrelcoupler (5) and further positioned to be in contact with, or proximallyto a gun barrel. The digital transmission signal from the barrel couplersensor (11) may be routed through a signal cable (12), or transmittedwirelessly to a processor configured to receive and convert the signalinto a digital temperature indication (17). In this embodiment, one ormore digital temperature indications (17) may be presented on a digitaldisplay (8).

In one preferred embodiment, a digital display (8) may be positionedwithin a display housing (15). This display housing (15) may beconfigured to be coupled with a display mount (7). In the embodimentshown in FIGS. 18-29, digital display (8) may be coupled with a displaymount (7) through an adjustable joint, in this case a pivot joint (9).In this configuration, a user may pivot the display housing (15),securing the digital display (8) to an approximately perpendicularposition with respect to the gun so as to be visible in the user's lineof sight during use. In this instance, the term line-of-sight may meanbeing generally perceivable by a user when discharging a round.Conversely, in this configuration, a user may pivot the display housing(15) to an approximately parallel position with respect to the gun so asto be fully or partially removed from the user's line-of-sight.

In certain embodiments, a display housing (15) may secure one or moredigital display controls that may be engaged to manipulate the digitaltemperature indications (17). Examples of such control may include apower button (13), or a clear button (14). Additional embodiments mayinclude a toggle control to switch between different digital temperatureindications (17), or different gun or barrel types. In this embodiment,the processer may be configured to compensate for a gun or barrel typeto calibrate the sensor. In another embodiment, a toggle may include afeature to count rounds discharged and provide a digital signal when apre-determined threshold is reached.

Again, referring to FIGS. 18-29, in this preferred embodiment a displaymount (7) may include one or more separate components configured to bemounted to a gun. In this preferred embodiment, a display mount (7) mayinclude one or more customizable coupler surfaces (18) that may beconfigured to be coupled with a gun, such as a customizable AR-15, oreven a pistol. For example, in one preferred embodiment, a display mount(7) may be configured to be coupled with a rail mount or othercomponent. Additional embodiments may include a magnet coupler or asnap, slide or quick-release type coupler that may be attached to aplurality of positions on the gun's frame or barrel.

All embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative and should notbe construed to limit the scope of the inventive technology consistentwith the broader inventive principles disclosed. As may be easilyunderstood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the presentinventive technology may be embodied in a variety of ways. It generallyinvolves systems, methods, techniques as well as devices to generate agun barrel thermal indicator and the like. In this application, themethods and apparatus for the aforementioned systems are disclosed aspart of the results shown to be achieved by the various devicesdescribed and as steps which are inherent to utilization. They aresimply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

While the invention has been described in connection with a preferredembodiment, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention tothe particular form set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended tocover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may beincluded within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by thestatements of invention. As can be easily understood from the foregoing,the basic concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a varietyof ways. It involves both techniques as well as devices to accomplishthe appropriate system. In this application, the techniques aredisclosed as part of the results shown to be achieved by the variousdevices described and as steps which are inherent to utilization. Theyare simply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as abasic description. The reader should be aware that the specificdiscussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; manyalternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the genericnature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature orelement can actually be representative of a broader function or of agreat variety of alternative or equivalent elements. Again, these areimplicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is describedin method-oriented terminology, each element of the claims correspondsto a device. Apparatus claims may not only be included for the devicedescribed, but also method or process claims may be included to addressthe functions the invention and each element performs. Neither thedescription nor the terminology is intended to limit the scope of theclaims that will be included in any subsequent patent application.

It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be madewithout departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes arealso implicitly included in the description. They still fall within thescope of this invention. A broad disclosure encompassing both theexplicit embodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternativeembodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like areencompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting anyclaims. It should be understood that such language changes and broaderor more detailed claiming may be accomplished at a later date (such asby any required deadline) or in the event the applicant subsequentlyseeks a patent filing based on this filing. With this understanding, thereader should be aware that this disclosure is to be understood tosupport any subsequently filed patent application that may seekexamination of as broad a base of claims as deemed within theapplicant's right and may be designed to yield a patent coveringnumerous aspects of the invention both independently and as an overallsystem.

Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims mayalso be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used orimplied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual aswell as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected.This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a methodor process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element ofthese. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosurerelates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may beexpressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms—even if only thefunction or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even moregeneric terms should be considered to be encompassed in the descriptionof each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desiredto make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this inventionis entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that allactions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as anelement which causes that action. Similarly, each physical elementdisclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the actionwhich that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, asbut one example, the disclosure of a “coupler” should be understood toencompass disclosure of the act of “coupling”—whether explicitlydiscussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure ofthe act of “coupling”, such a disclosure should be understood toencompass disclosure of a “coupling method and/or technique, and/ordevice” and the like. Such changes and alternative terms are to beunderstood to be explicitly included in the description.

Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in thisapplication for patent, such as in the specification or an IDS arehereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Any prioritycase(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended and herebyincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Finally, allreferences listed in the list of References To Be Incorporated ByReference In Accordance With The Patent Application or other informationdisclosure statement and the like filed with the application are herebyappended and hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety,however, as to each of the above, to the extent that such information orstatements incorporated by reference might be considered inconsistentwith the patenting of this/these invention(s) such statements areexpressly not to be considered as made by the applicant(s).

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim andmake a statement of invention to at least: i) each of the methods and/orapparatus for providing a gun barrel thermal indicator system as hereindisclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed anddescribed, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations ofeach of these devices and methods, iv) those alternative designs whichaccomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosed and described,v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of thefunctions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosedand described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separateand independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by thevarious systems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting productsproduced by such systems or components, ix) each system, method, andelement shown or described as now applied to any specific field ordevices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially as describedhereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanying examples, xi)the various combinations and permutations of each of the elementsdisclosed, xii) each potentially dependent claim or concept as adependency on each and every one of the independent claims or conceptspresented, and xiii) all inventions described herein.

With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, itshould be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid greatexpansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any timepresent only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with onlyinitial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested inpotential scope of this or subsequent applications should understandthat broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in acase claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spiteof any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, orarguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there isno intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. Itshould be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, suchmay require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered atany prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that tothe extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented inthis or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid suchprior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims orthe like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested inexisting or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at anytime been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender ofpotential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimeris ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application.Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this orany subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understoodto exist to the degree required under new matter laws—including but notlimited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United StatesPatent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws—to permit the addition of anyof the various dependencies or other elements presented under oneindependent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any otherindependent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whetherin this application or in any subsequent application, it should also beunderstood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broada scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent thatinsubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant didnot in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particularembodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant shouldnot be understood to have in any way intended to or actuallyrelinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have beenable to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should notbe reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literallyencompassed such alternative embodiments.

Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrase“comprising” is used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, accordingto traditional claim interpretation. Thus, unless the context requiresotherwise, it should be understood that the term “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are intended to implythe inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or stepsbut not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elementsor steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive formso as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible.It should be understood that this application also provides support forany combination of elements in the claims and even incorporates anydesired proper antecedent basis for certain claim combinations such aswith combinations of method, apparatus, process, and the like claims.

Finally, any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated byreference as part of this description of the invention, and theapplicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion ofsuch incorporated content of such claims as additional description tosupport any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof,and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move anyportion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or anyelement or component thereof from the description into the claims orvice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection issought by this application or by any subsequent continuation, division,or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefitof, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws,rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such contentincorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency ofthis application including any subsequent continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extensionthereon. The inventive subject matter is to include, but certainly notbe limited as, a system substantially as herein described with referenceto any one or more of the Figures and Description (including thefollowing: for example, the process according to any claims and furthercomprising any of the steps as shown in any Figures, separately, in anycombination or permutation).

1. A flexible thermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator comprising:a thermochromic band configured to be secured around a gun barrel suchthat thermal energy generated within said gun barrel is transferred tosaid thermochromic band and wherein said thermochromic band comprises aflexible polymer; and a quantity of thermochromic indicator impregnatedwithin said thermochromic band and calibrated such that said thermalenergy generated from said gun barrel causes said thermochromicindicator to transmit a temperature signal when said thermal energy fromsaid gun barrel reaches at least one pre-determined temperaturethreshold.
 2. A flexible thermochromic gun barrel temperature indicatoras described in claim 1 wherein said thermochromic band is configured tobe adjustably positioned in or out of the user's line-of-sight.
 3. Aflexible thermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator as described inclaim 1 wherein said thermochromic indicator comprises a thermochromicindicator selected from the group consisting of: thermochromic paint,thermochromic dyes, temperature strip; thermochromic strip;thermochromic chemicals; thermochromic pigments; thermochromic coating,a replaceable thermochromic indicator.
 4. A flexible thermochromic gunbarrel temperature indicator as described in claim 3 wherein said aquantity of thermochromic indicator impregnated within saidthermochromic band and calibrated such that said thermal energygenerated from said gun barrel causes said thermochromic indicator totransmit a temperature signal when said thermal energy from said gunbarrel reaches at least one pre-determined temperature thresholdcomprises a quantity of thermochromic indicator impregnated within saidthermochromic band and calibrated to account for the type ofthermochromic indicator, the quantity of thermochromic indicator, saidgun barrel thickness, the type thermochromic band material, the amountof thermal thermochromic band material, or the heat transfer coefficientvariation in said gun barrel such that said thermal energy generatedfrom said gun barrel causes said thermochromic indicator to transmit atemperature signal when said thermal energy from said gun barrel reachesat least one pre-determined temperature threshold.
 5. A flexiblethermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator as described in claim 1wherein said temperature signal comprises a color change in saidthermochromic indicator impregnated within said thermochromic band.
 6. Aflexible thermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator as described inclaim 5 wherein said pre-determined temperature threshold comprises apre-determined temperature threshold selected from the group consistingof: a touch temperature threshold, a store temperature threshold, andaccuracy temperature threshold, an imminent barrel failure temperaturethreshold, and a barrel failure temperature threshold.
 7. A flexiblethermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator as described in claim 1wherein said a quantity of thermochromic indicator impregnated withinsaid thermochromic band comprises a plurality of thermochromicindicators impregnated within said thermochromic band.
 8. A flexiblethermochromic gun barrel temperature indicator as described in claim 1wherein said plurality of thermochromic indicators impregnated withinsaid thermochromic band comprises a plurality of thermochromicindicators impregnated within said thermochromic band wherein each ofsaid thermochromic indicators are differentially calibrated so as totransmits a different temperature signal.
 9. A flexible thermochromicgun barrel temperature indicator as described in claim 8 wherein saidplurality of thermochromic indicators impregnated within saidthermochromic band wherein each of said thermochromic indicators aredifferentially calibrated so as to transmit a different temperaturesignals comprises plurality of thermochromic indicators impregnatedwithin said thermochromic band wherein each of said thermochromicindicators are differentially calibrated so as to transmit a pluralityof color changes in response to different pre-determined temperaturethresholds.
 10. A flexible thermochromic gun barrel temperatureindicator as described in claim 9 wherein said a pre-determinedtemperature thresholds comprises a plurality of sequentialpre-determined temperature threshold.
 11. A flexible thermochromic gunbarrel temperature indicator as described in claim 1 and furthercomprising a pre-generated calibration guide.
 12. A gun barrel thermalindicator comprising: at least one barrel coupler configured to besecured with a gun barrel such that thermal energy generated within saidgun barrel is transferred to said barrel coupler; and at least onethermochromic indicator secured to said barrel coupler and calibratedsuch that said thermal energy generated from said gun barrel causes saidthermochromic indicator to transmit a temperature signal.
 13. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 12 wherein saidthermochromic indicator secured to said barrel coupler and calibratedsuch that said thermal energy generated from said gun barrel causes saidthermochromic indicator to transmit a temperature signal comprises atleast one thermochromic indicator secured to said barrel coupler andcalibrated such that said thermal energy generated from said gun barrelcauses said thermochromic indicator to transmit a temperature signalwhen said thermal energy from said gun barrel reaches at least onepre-determined temperature threshold.
 14. A gun barrel thermal indicatoras described in claim 12 and further comprising a barrel lock.
 15. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 14 wherein said barrellock comprises a barrel coupler fastener.
 16. A gun barrel thermalindicator as described in claim 12 wherein said gun barrel comprises arifle barrel.
 17. A gun barrel thermal indicator as described in claim12 wherein said barrel coupler configured to be secured with said gunbarrel comprises a barrel coupler having at least one apertureconfigured secure at least one screw and/or a padded screw.
 18. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 12 wherein said barrelcoupler configured to be secured with said gun barrel comprises barrelcoupler configured to be secured with said gun barrel selected from thegroup consisting of: a barrel coupler configured to be secured with saidgun barrel by a clamp; a barrel coupler configured to be secured withsaid gun barrel by a magnet; a barrel coupler configured to be securedwith said gun barrel by a quick-release lock; a barrel couplerconfigured to be secured with said gun barrel by a biased-spring; abarrel coupler configured to be secured with said gun barrel by a snapcoupler; a barrel coupler configured to be secured with said gun barrelby a slide coupler; and barrel coupler configured to be secured withsaid gun barrel by a twist coupler.
 19. A gun barrel thermal indicatoras described in claim 12 wherein said a thermochromic indicator securedto said barrel coupler and calibrated such that said thermal energygenerated from said gun barrel causes said thermochromic indicator totransmit a temperature signal comprises a thermochromic indicatorsecured to said barrel coupler and calibrated to account for the thermalconductivity of the coupler material and volume such that the loss ofheat transmitted through said coupler is accounted for such that thetemperature signal is approximately equal to the temperature of said gunbarrel.
 20. A gun barrel thermal indicator as described in claim 12wherein said a thermochromic indicator secured to said barrel couplerand calibrated such that said thermal energy generated from said gunbarrel causes said thermochromic indicator to transmit a temperaturesignal comprises said a thermochromic indicator secured to said barrelcoupler and calibrated to account for the heat transfer coefficientvariation in said gun barrel and/or said barrel coupler.
 21. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 12 wherein saidthermochromic indicator comprises a thermochromic indicator selectedfrom the group consisting of: thermochromic paint, thermochromic dyes,temperature strip; thermochromic strip; thermochromic chemicals;thermochromic pigments; thermochromic coating, a replaceablethermochromic indicator.
 22. A gun barrel thermal indicator as describedin claim 12 wherein said temperature signal comprises a temperaturesignal selected from the group consisting of: a numerical temperaturesignal, a color temperature signal, a color gradient temperature signal,a color indication, and a binary temperature signal, a warningtemperature signal, a burn temperature signal, a store failuretemperature signal, an accuracy temperature signal, an imminent barrelfailure temperature signal, and a barrel failure temperature signal. 23.A gun barrel thermal indicator as described in claim 13 wherein saidpre-determined temperature threshold comprises a pre-determinedtemperature threshold selected from the group consisting of: a burnthreshold, a 1^(st) degree burn threshold, a 2^(nd) degree burnthreshold, a 3^(rd) degree burn threshold, a storage failure threshold;a barrel replacement threshold, an accuracy threshold, an imminentbarrel failure threshold, and a barrel failure threshold.
 24. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 12 wherein said barrelcoupler comprises a barrel coupler selected from the group consistingof: an aluminum barrel coupler, a cooper barrel coupler, a brass barrelcoupler, a plastic barrel coupler, a flexible barrel coupler, and acomposite barrel coupler.
 25. A gun barrel thermal indicator asdescribed in claim 12 wherein said thermochromic indicator secured tosaid barrel coupler comprises a thermochromic indicator secured to saidbarrel coupler and positioned in the user's line-of-sight.
 26. A gunbarrel thermal indicator as described in claim 25 wherein said athermochromic indicator secured to said barrel coupler and positioned inthe user's line-of-sight comprises an adjustable thermochromic indicatorsecured to said barrel coupler and configured to be adjustablypositioned in or out of the user's line-of-sight.
 27. A gun barrelthermal indicator as described in claim 12 and further comprising apre-generated calibration guide.
 28. A flexible thermochromictemperature indicator comprising: a thermochromic band configured to besecured around a gun barrel such that thermal energy generated withinsaid gun barrel is transferred to said thermochromic band; and aquantity of thermochromic indicators impregnated within saidthermochromic band and calibrated such that said thermal energygenerated from said gun barrel causes said thermochromic indicators totransmit a temperature signal when said thermal energy from said gunbarrel reaches at least one pre-determined temperature threshold.
 29. Aflexible thermochromic temperature indicator as described in claim 28,wherein said thermochromic indicator comprises a thermochromic indicatorselected from the group consisting of: thermochromic paint,thermochromic dyes, temperature strip; a thermochromic strip;thermochromic chemicals; thermochromic pigments; thermochromic coating.30. A flexible thermochromic temperature indicator as described in claim1, wherein said pre-determined temperature threshold comprises apre-determined temperature threshold selected from the group consistingof: a touch temperature threshold, a store temperature threshold, andaccuracy temperature threshold, an imminent barrel failure temperaturethreshold, and a barrel failure temperature threshold.
 31. A flexiblethermochromic temperature indicator as described in claim 1, whereinsaid quantity of thermochromic indicators impregnated within saidthermochromic band comprises a plurality of thermochromic indicatorsimpregnated within said thermochromic band.